Frd No 6 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Frd No 6, also known as Silver Creek Watershed Dam 6, is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Cottonwood Falls, Kansas.


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Summary

Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 36 feet and spans 700 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.82 square miles, Frd No 6 plays a crucial role in mitigating the risk of flooding in the Silver Creek-TR watershed.

Despite its important function, Frd No 6 has been assessed as being in poor condition, with a hazard potential rated as low. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and lacks outlet gates. The last inspection was conducted in January 2017, highlighting the need for regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure the structure's continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction. With moderate risk management measures in place, stakeholders must work together to address the poor condition assessment and mitigate any potential risks associated with the dam.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of structures like Frd No 6 in safeguarding communities from the impacts of flooding. By understanding the design and operational details of such dams, as well as their condition and maintenance needs, stakeholders can work towards ensuring the long-term resilience of these critical infrastructure assets. Collaborative efforts between local government agencies, regulatory bodies, and the community will be essential in preserving the functionality and safety of Frd No 6 for years to come.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

SILVER CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.6

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

0.82

Nid Storage

300

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.